In the desktop version you must go into "preferences" and tell QB that you want to create 1099's. Then in each Vendor information file you must check the box that reads "this vendor is eligible for a 1099" and fill in the vendors tax id number. Be sure to categorize the vendors bills to the "subcontractors" expense or one of the other assigned accounts for your 1099 vendors. You can create 1099's within the desktop version by going to vendors and selecting "create 1099's". The online version only differs slightly.
